Gum recession is one of the most common dental concerns among adults, affecting an estimated four to twelve percent of the population. When gum tissue pulls away from the teeth and exposes the tooth roots, the consequences extend beyond aesthetics. Exposed roots are more vulnerable to sensitivity, decay, and structural damage. Without treatment, gum recession can progress to the point where tooth loss becomes a risk.

At Ora Dentistry, soft tissue grafting is performed as part of our comprehensive restorative dentistry services. Dr. Devan Dalla is skilled in achieving precise, natural-looking soft tissue results that restore gum coverage, protect exposed roots, and support long-term gum health.

Why Gum Recession Happens

Gum recession develops gradually and often goes unnoticed until it has progressed significantly. Common contributing factors include aggressive brushing technique, periodontal disease, thin gum tissue, tooth misalignment, and habits such as tobacco use. Because recession tends to worsen over time without intervention, early evaluation and treatment produce the best outcomes.

Signs of gum recession include visible tooth root exposure, increased sensitivity to temperature or touch along the gumline, teeth that appear longer than they once did, and notching at the base of the tooth.

AlloDerm Regenerative Tissue Matrix

Traditionally, soft tissue grafting required harvesting donor tissue from the roof of the patient’s mouth, which extended the procedure and added a second surgical site to the recovery process. At Ora Dentistry, we are pleased to offer AlloDerm Regenerative Tissue Matrix as an alternative grafting option that eliminates the need for palatal tissue harvesting in appropriate cases.

AlloDerm is a donated tissue matrix that has been processed to remove cells while preserving the natural tissue framework. It has been used successfully in dental soft tissue procedures for more than a decade and is supported by extensive clinical research. By using AlloDerm, we can restore gum coverage and augment soft tissue without creating a second wound site, resulting in a more comfortable recovery for many patients.

AlloDerm can be used for a range of soft tissue procedures including:

• Root coverage for exposed tooth roots
• Gingival augmentation to increase the thickness or volume of gum tissue
• Soft tissue ridge augmentation to restore gum contour following tooth loss
• Soft tissue augmentation around dental implants to support long-term implant health and aesthetics

Is Soft Tissue Grafting Right for You?

If you have noticed your gums pulling away from your teeth, are experiencing sensitivity along the gumline, or have been told that recession is present during a routine exam, a consultation with Dr. Dalla can help determine whether soft tissue grafting is appropriate for your situation. Early treatment preserves more natural tissue and produces more predictable results than waiting until recession has become severe.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation at our Elk Grove office.

Frequently Asked Questions About Soft Tissue Grafting

Is soft tissue grafting painful?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia. Because AlloDerm eliminates the need for a second surgical site at the palate in appropriate cases, most patients find recovery more comfortable than they anticipated. Some tenderness and swelling in the treated area is normal for the first several days and typically resolves within one to two weeks.

How long does recovery take after a soft tissue graft?
Most patients are able to return to normal daily activities within a few days. Full healing of the grafted tissue takes several weeks to months as the graft integrates with the surrounding tissue. Dr. Dalla will provide detailed aftercare instructions and monitor your healing at follow-up appointments.

Will my gums look natural after grafting?
Yes. The goal of soft tissue grafting at Ora Dentistry is to achieve a natural-looking result that blends seamlessly with the surrounding gum tissue. Dr. Dalla takes care in the design and placement of each graft to ensure optimal aesthetics as well as function.

Can gum recession return after grafting?
Grafting addresses existing recession but does not eliminate the underlying factors that caused it. Patients who experienced recession due to aggressive brushing, periodontal disease, or other modifiable factors will need to address those causes to prevent recurrence. Dr. Dalla will discuss the cause of your recession and provide guidance on preventing further tissue loss after treatment.

Is soft tissue grafting covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on your specific plan and the clinical indication for the procedure. Grafting performed to treat recession associated with periodontal disease may be covered under dental insurance. Our team will help you understand your benefits and discuss payment options before treatment begins.